St. James Cathedral Basilica

Welcome! We are the Cathedral parish of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Brooklyn serving the communities of Downtown Brooklyn, Dumbo and Vinegar Hill. 

We are a diverse community who together strive to celebrate our faith through Word, Prayer, Worship, Community and Service.

Hymn Texts for September 13th, 2020

Opening Hymn: The Master Came To Bring Good News

1. “Forgive our sins as we forgive,”
You taught us, Lord, to pray,
But you alone can grant us grace
To live the words we pray.

2. How can your pardon reach and bless
The unforgiving heart
That broods on wrongs and will not let
Old bitterness depart.


Offertory Hymn: Our Father, We Have Wandered

1. Our Father, we have wandered
and hidden from your face;
In foolishness have squandered
Your legacy of grace.
Bur now, in exile dwelling,
We rise with fear and shame,
As distant but compelling,
We hear you call our name.

2. And now at length discerning
The evil that we do,
Behold us, Lord, returning
With hope and trust to you.
In haste you come to meet us
And home rejoicing bring,
In gladness there to greet us
With calf and robe and ring.


3. O Lord of all the living,
Both banished and restored,
Compassionate, forgiving
And ever caring Lord,
Grant now that our transgressing,
Our faithlessness may cease.
Stretch our your hand in blessing,
In pardon and in peace.


Communion Hymn: Diverse In Culture, Nation, Race

1. Diverse in culture, nation, race,
We come together by your grace.
God, let us be a meeting ground
Where hope and healing love are found.

2. God, let us be a bridge of care
Connecting people everywhere.
Help us confront all fear and hate
And lust for pow’r that separate.

3. When chasms widen, storms arise,
O Holy Spirit, make us wise.
Let our resolve, like steel be strong
To stand with those who suffer wrong.


Recessional Hymn: Love Divine, All Loves Excelling

1. Love divine, all loves excelling,
Joy of heaven to earth come down!
Fix in us your humble dwelling,
All your faithful mercies crown.
Jesus, source of all compassion,
Love unbounded, love all pure;
Visit us with your salvation,
Let your love in us endure.

2. Come, almighty, to deliver,
Let us all your life receive;
Suddenly return and never,
Never  more your temples leave.
Lord. we would be always blessing,
Serve you  as your hosts above,
Pray, and praise you without ceasing,
Glory in your precious love.